ALOR SETAR, Aug 18 (Bernama) -- The Muda Agricultural Development Authority (MADA) is stepping up monitoring to expedite the supply of additional compound fertiliser (Padi Fertiliser 3) to farmers in its areas following delays by the supplier.
As of today, it said 137,560 bags of the fertiliser had been supplied, representing 22 per cent of the total requirement of 616,015 bags.
“Some 478,455 bags are still outstanding to meet the needs of 38,000 farmers cultivating about 78,117 hectares.
“MADA takes the delay seriously, particularly as the fertiliser is being supplied during a critical stage of padi growth,” it said in a statement today.
It said about 52,000 hectares of padi are currently at between 31 and 75 days after sowing (DAS), when Padi Fertiliser 3 needs to be applied to support panicle formation and grain filling.
The statement said MADA had also reminded the supplier to comply with the terms of the contract and instructed it to provide daily and weekly supply schedules to facilitate closer monitoring.
“Fertiliser quality is also being closely monitored. Laboratory analyses found inconsistencies in the physical quality of the fertiliser, particularly in terms of granule size and dust content.
“Accordingly, the supplier has been required to take corrective action to ensure that the fertiliser supplied meets the stipulated specifications and requirements,” it said.
It said the supplier resumed deliveries today, with 15,200 bags being supplied.
“MADA will continue to monitor the receipt of supplies at the Area Farmers’ Organisations (PPK), their distribution to farmers and stock levels in the field on a daily basis,” it said.
Meanwhile, MADA stressed that the supplier is responsible for ensuring full compliance with all obligations and requirements stipulated in the contract.
“Any failure to fulfil the supply commitments will not be taken lightly, and appropriate action will be taken in accordance with the provisions of the contract and the prevailing government procurement regulations.
“The welfare of farmers and the smooth implementation of padi cultivation activities are MADA’s priorities. We will not compromise on any non-compliance that could affect the continuity of agricultural input supplies to farmers,” it said.
MADA said it would continue to strengthen monitoring and coordination with the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (KPKM) and relevant parties to ensure that the remaining 478,455 bags of Padi Fertiliser 3 are supplied before the end of the supply period on Oct 1.
“This effort is aimed at ensuring that the fertiliser needs of padi farmers are met, padi production continues smoothly and the national food security agenda remains a priority,” it added.
-- BERNAMA